Different Ways To End Violence Against Women
Violence against women is a pervasive and disturbing reality that plagues societies around the world. From physical and sexual assault to emotional and psychological abuse, women are tormented in various ways. The torture leaves devastating impacts on the victim and her family. While the government of different countries, NGOs, and other organizations are trying to address and solve the problems in recent years, there’s a long way to go. In this article, let’s explore the different ways that can be put to use in order to end violence against women.
Speak Up And Encourage To Speak Out
Violence against women may be pervasive but not inevitable. If you have been a victim of any kind of mistreatment, speak up. Report a complaint against the wrongdoing. If you notice any of your friends or family member suffering due to an abusive relationship, let them know that you’re there for them and encourage them to take a stand. Create spaces, both offline and online, where women can reach out and share their stories.
Educate The Girls
In poverty-stricken countries, many girls who enter school do not finish their education and drop out of school due to early marriage, household chores, or teenage pregnancy. Countries like Ethiopia, Nigeria, and DRC suffer the most due to the lack of women’s education. Keeping girls in school can help them to have greater control of their lives, and learn about safety and healthcare. But to do that, at first barriers to women’s education like gender-based violence, sexual harassment, etc. need to be addressed.
Teach Consent To Both Boys And Girls
Both boys and girls should be taught what consent means. Instead of just assuming a “Yes” always, make sure it is said in free will. Teach them enthusiastic consent and help them adopt it. Call out dialogues like “Boys will be boys”, or “She was asking for it”. Help them to learn to respect each other’s choices and also to accept a “No” with enthusiasm. When it comes to consent, there should be no blurred lines.
Educate The Next Generation
What you will teach your younger generation will define how they would think about gender, respect, and rights. Try to start gender conversation early on around them, challenge taboos, call out stereotypes, and promote a culture of acceptance. Help them to understand that people can be different and that should be respected. Talk about consent, accountability, and gender roles around them. Listen to what they have to say.
Fund Organizations Working For Women
There are several organizations around the world that are working every day to empower women. McCain Institute is one of them. Investing in these organizations can help to prevent violence against women and fight for their rights.
Stand Against Rape Culture
Standing against rape culture helps to fight against the attitudes and behaviors that contribute to the normalization of sexual violence. Rape culture includes a range of harmful beliefs and practices, such as victim blaming, slut shaming, and the objectification of women’s bodies. Speaking out against these harmful practices and promoting a culture of consent and respect can help to create a safer and more supportive environment for survivors of violence.
Make Men A Part Of The Change
The taboos are unequal treatments are deep-rooted problems in society. In order to uproot it, educating women alone won’t be enough. By engaging men in discussions related to toxic masculinity, gender role, etc., the dominating part of society can be enlightened and thus, violence and inequality against women can be reduced.
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